Choosing the Right Developer for Hair Lightening: Insights and Recommendations
There’s a common misconception that a developer alone is enough to lighten hair. In reality, a developer needs to be used in conjunction with a lightening agent or high-lift hair color for virgin hair. The following guide will help you understand the process and recommend suitable products.
The Role of a Developer
A developer is a fundamental component in any hair lightening process. It contains hydrogen peroxide, which is responsible for lifting the hair color pigment, thus lightening the hair. However, merely having a developer isn’t sufficient – you also need a lightening agent or high-lift hair color to achieve the desired results.
Recommended Products and Brands
When looking for a cost-effective solution, you can opt for either Manic Panic Flash Lightening Kit or L’Oreal Quick Blue. Both of these brands are affordable and readily available on online platforms such as Amazon or eBay. Considering that you already have a developer, the L’Oreal Quick Blue would be a more cost-effective choice due to its higher volume.
Why Hair is Your Crown Gem and How to Take Care of It
Your hair is often referred to as your crowning glory. It’s important to handle it with care and not to compromise on the quality of products you use. Seeking the best results takes time and patience. Therefore, it is recommended to wait until you can afford professional treatments or high-quality products. Any shortcuts may lead to disappointment or potentially damage your hair.
The Chemistry Behind Hair Lightening
Developers are acidic, and they contain hydrogen peroxide as the primary active ingredient. Different volumes of developer are used for different purposes. Low volumes (e.g., 6 or 10) are typically used for dyeing, which is why they are called developers. Higher volumes (e.g., 20, 30, or 40) are used for lightening natural hair color. While high-volume developers can lighten hair effectively, they work even better when mixed with alkaline hair color.
The acidity of the developer doesn't penetrate the hair shaft very well, and acidic hydrogen peroxide is not very reactive. In contrast, alkaline hair colors help to increase penetration. The alkalinity also triggers the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which is the process that lightens your hair.
Hair Lightening Damages Hair
Lightening your hair, especially to a very light shade, can cause damage. This is because the more you lighten your hair, the more you damage it. When mixed with alkaline hair color, a 20-volume developer typically lightens hair by 1 or 2 levels. A 30-volume or 40-volume developer will lighten hair by 3 or 4 levels.
Pro Tip: Apply Wet for Better Results
For best results, consider wetting the hair before applying the lightening agent and developer. As I explained in my video, applying wet hair is generally more effective than dry hair for achieving optimal lightening results.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice of a developer and lightening agent is crucial for effective hair lightening. For affordable options, brands like Manic Panic and L’Oreal provide reliable solutions. It’s also essential to follow the product instructions carefully and understand the chemistry involved. Remember, your hair is a valuable asset, and investing in the right products and techniques will ensure you achieve the results you desire without compromising on the health of your hair.